Coconut oil sure is trendy these days. A simple search for "coconut oil" on Instructables yields countless recipes. Strangely enough, I rarely consume or cook with coconut oil. Instead, I apply it topically almost daily as part of my beauty and health care routine. It smells great, saves me money, and (most importantly) gets the job done. Here are my favorite top 9 uses for this home remedy staple.

Step 1: Tooth Aches and Teeth Strengthening

Practitioners of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian holistic medical system, recommend swishing coconut oil (also known as “oil pulling”) daily to decrease tooth sensitivity and strengthen enamel. And recent studies have shown that coconut oil naturally combats a major bacterium known to cause tooth decay, Streptococcus.
How I use it
For specific tooth pain, I dip my finger in coconut oil (in solid form), gently massage it around the tooth in question, and avoid extremely hot or cold food and beverages for a few hours. For preventative measures, after brushing my teeth with regular toothpaste, I apply about a dime-size amount of coconut oil to my toothbrush and brush my teeth, gums, and tongue with the oil before bedtime. (Since adding this step to my daily routine, I no longer experience tooth pain.)
Need more than coconut oil?
Add two drops or so of clove oil to the coconut oil.

Step 2: Sun Burn

Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which help cool the skin, and it is also an excellent skin moisturizer, which helps prevent pealing. As a bonus, coconut oil has a natural SPF between 4 and 10, which may help prevent further sun damage.
How I use it
It doesn’t happen that often, but when I do get a sunburn, I apply globs of coconut oil to my skin after a shower or bath. The warmth of my skin quickly makes the oil very viscous, so I have to stand over a towel to avoid a mess. I let the oil absorb into my skin before I put on any clothes, and within an hour my skin is noticeable cooler to the touch.
Need more than coconut oil?
Add 1 tsp of aloe vera plants and/or 1 tsp of raw honey to every 1 tbsp of coconut oil.

Step 3: Bug Bites

Rubbing a thin layer of coconut oil over a mosquito/bug bite will not only stop the itching/burning sensation but also protect the area from further infection.
How I use it
My blood type must be Ragu, because I am constantly being fed on by insects. The aftereffects of bites go away on their own, but to expedite the process I slightly coat any “sudden” red, itchy bumps with coconut oil and let the anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties do their thing.
Need more than coconut oil?
Make a paste of equal parts baking soda and coconut oil and apply to the affected area.

Step 4: Dry Skin (Including Psoriasis and Eczema)

Coconut oil’s antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties have been proven to help heal damaged, dry, and broken skin. Its healthy vitamins and nutrients (mainly Vitamins K and E) also alleviate the itching that often results from damaged skin.
How I use it
No amount of lotion—drugstore or prescription—can do what coconut oil has done for my dry skin. A little goes a long way and too much oil can get a little messy, so I always apply the oil over a towel. A jar of coconut oil is conveniently located in my bathroom and I massage a small amount all over my body (excluding the face, as it can be pore-clogging) after drying off from the shower.
Need more than coconut oil?
In the winter, when skin tends to be at its driest, apply a thin layer of olive oil after the coconut oil has been fully absorbed into the skin for some extra-smoothness.

Step 5: Damaged Hair and Dandruff

Coconut oil is one of the few oils that can penetrate the hair shaft, improving its strength and flexibility. Its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties (namely, lauric acid) also help rid the scalp of dandruff and product buildup (after one use!). Indian women have been massaging this oil into their scalp and hair for generations and have consequently been the subject of hair-envy around the world.
How I use it
After years of curl-denial (i.e., egregious overuse of the hair straightener), I rehabilitated my hair with the following hair regime twice a week: I massage at least a cup of coconut oil to my scalp and gently stroke the remainder down my hair. I wrap my hair up in a silk wrap, let the coconut oil works its magic overnight, and then wash it out in the morning.
Need more than coconut oil?
Switch to a non-sulfate (natural) shampoo.

Step 6: Puffy and Dark Sleep-Deprived Eyes

Coconut oil’s anti-inflammatory properties, specifically lauric acid, work wonders to reduce puffiness of the skin. In particular, it can brighten up the under-eye skin region after a night of sleeplessness.
How I use it
I’m a girl who needs my 8 hours of zzzzzzz a night. When I don’t get it, you can easily see it in my face—namely, under my eyes. A quick brush of coconut oil under my eyes quickly relieves the puffiness and reduces the darkness. (Note: I tend to keep it away from my problem T-zone area, as coconut oil can clog pores.)
Need more than coconut oil?
No surprise here, use cucumbers! Sometimes I’ll put cool cucumbers on my eyes for a few minutes before applying the coconut oil.

Step 7: Cuts and Scrapes

Although not as effective as antibiotic gels like Neosporin, coconut oil will provide a layer of protection for cuts and scrapes from outside dust, bacteria, and virus. And unlike its pharmaceutical counterparts, coconut oil has no negative side effects.
How I use it
For minor scrapes and skin boo-boos, I apply a thin layer of coconut oil to protect the exposed region and expedite the healing process.
Need more than coconut oil?
Add in some raw honey for good measure. It has been proven to clear infections.

Step 8: Brittle Nails

Rubbing your hands and feet with coconut oil can help fight nail infections and fungus, while moisturizing the skin around the cuticles (a proven way to prevent hang nails).
How I use it
I used to be a horrible nail-biter. Once I broke that bad habit, I noticed my grown nails were a little weak and brittle … and my cuticles hardly helped the situation. On regular days, I apply coconut oil all over my hands like I would a lotion to keep them moisturized. On particularly bad days, I’ll warm a cup of coconut oil in the microwave and rest my fingers in the oil for a few minutes.
Need more than coconut oil?
Mince up some garlic and combine it with the coconut oil. Let your nails rest in the mixture for a few minutes, and voila, the weak nails are no more! Garlic is especially useful in combating toenail fungus.

Step 9: Body Odor

The lauric acid in coconut oil is a proven killer of odor-causing bacteria. Plus, the scent of coconut oil is very light and in moderate amounts will not leave stains on clothes.
How I use it
I’m embarrassed to admit that I’ve had my share of difficulty with over-the-counter deodorants. I think some brands even made the “situation” worse. All I'll ever use now is coconut oil mixed with baking soda (in equal parts, mashed up with a fork). Not only does it help keep me odor-free, but I swear it is the most effective antiperspirant I have ever come across.
Need more than coconut oil?
Not sure what to say. You’re on your own on this one … but thanks for reading!!